Dental Implants Versus A Bridge
|January 15, 2018
My Dentist Said I Need A Crown, and I was like, “You’re So Right, I Do!”
If you are missing a single tooth, one implant and a crown can replace it. A single tooth dental implant replaces both the lost natural tooth and its root.
Single Tooth Dental Implants
Advantages of a Single Tooth Implant Over a Bridge
A dental implant offers significant advantages over other tooth replacement options. Not only will the implant look and function just like your natural tooth, the implant will replace that single lost tooth without sacrificing the health of the adjacent teeth. The other common treatment option for the loss of a single tooth, which is a tooth supported fixed bridge, requires that the neighboring teeth be ground down in order to support the cemented bridge.
In addition, because the single tooth dental implant will replace your tooth root, the underlying bone will be better preserved. With a bridge, some of that bone that previously circled the tooth will begin to deteriorate, or resorb. A dental implant integrates with your jawbone, which helps keep the bone healthy and unimpaired. Over the long term, a single tooth implant is much more aesthetic and easier to keep hygienic than a bridge. Your gums may begin to recede around a bridge, which leaves a visible deficiency when the collar or metal base of the bridge becomes exposed. Deteriorated bone beneath a bridge may lead to an unattractive smile, and the cement holding the bridge in place may wash out letting in bacteria to decay the surrounding teeth that provide the anchor to the bridge.
How is the Tooth Implant Placed?
First, the implant looks like a cylinder or screw. This is placed into your jaw. Over the next several months, the bone and implant will bond together to create the anchor for your artificial tooth. During the time, you may have a temporary tooth replacement to wear over the site.
On occasion, a second step in the procedure is needed to uncover the implant to attach an extension. This temporary healing cap completes the foundation on which your new tooth will be secured. You will have several weeks to allow your gums to heal after this step. There are some implant systems that are one stage and do not have this second step. These systems provide an implant with an extension piece already attached. We can advise you on which system is best for you.
Finally, a crown, or replacement tooth, will be created and attached with to a small metal post called an abutment. Soon, you will enjoy restored confidence in your smile and your capability to chew and speak. Single tooth dental implants give you a natural look and feel. You may forget that you every lost that tooth.
Each case is unique and some steps may be combined when appropriate. Floss will provide highly professional, expert advice to help you determine the best treatment plan.
If going to the dentist is last on your list, consider a few facts. Dental health is critical to your overall health, and dental bacteria can impact serious health conditions, such as diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. Rather that seeing a trip to the dentist as a nuisance, Floss recommends establishing a relationship with us. This way we can offer you a comprehensive approach to your total health. When you have this relationship established, if the time comes when you need a single tooth implant, we already understand your overall needs, and we can provide superior dental service for a healthier, stand out smile!
Contact us today at 858.597.9844 for a consultation or use our convenient contact form on our website.